advocacy.collegeboard.org Competitiveness
State & Federal Policy
Academic Competitiveness Grants reward students who take challenging courses in high school
To encourage students to enroll in high-level math and science courses in high school, the Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG) program was established in 2006. The program awards additional merit-based aid to Pell-eligible students who successfully complete a rigorous course of study in high school.
As plans for the new program unfolded, the College Board actively participated in shaping the U.S. Department of Education's recommendations to states for awarding increased student aid. One criterion for student eligibility for these additional grants is the successful completion of at least two AP® courses in high school. By encouraging students to take more challenging courses in high school, the program focuses on supporting student preparation for success in college.
For more information on Academic Competitiveness Grants, visit http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/ac-smart.html.